In my search for something of real value for adding educational technology to my education program I looked into numerous sites and found the one I think is best for me at www.educatorstechnology.com/ although some were just as good they did not fit me. Other classmate had recommended some such as windowmoviemaker-instapaper- showme-noteshelf-ninjawords, plus I also looked into some others. All were useful and had lots of good information.
I did not dislike any of the sites mostly because I do not have enough knowledge to criticize any of them. I found some to be fun and exciting and very well done. My theory is if someone went to the trouble to create and do all the work necessary then they probably fit someone.
One reason I chose this site is most all of the subjects are covered. I especially like the one with instructions on storytelling. I think it would be a blast to teach that class. Next reason is it is hands-on and I believe it would keep the students engaged and interested.
The larger plus I found is the students can use this site with equipment the schools are starting to furnish, mainly IPads. I did discuss this with a girlfriend of my grandson and she said they use it in their high school classes. Information can be easily installed on different devices such as the new phones. Using this tool the students could study things from the class, add comments, add input even when not in class. This would make it easier to learn by using the tool anywhere anytime.
For now and the future it is important to use creative tools as the students are already interested in using technology. If we wish to instruct we must be in tune with our students. As an example consider this; my grandsons have three male friends over visiting, their girlfriends are here as well. As I observe them all have phones with internet access, of course they do all the photo exchanges, go to Facebook and much more. They order food, check on movies, keep up with friend locations, activities. Altogether they use these tools on a very constant basis, so it only makes sense to take their activities and add a little education to what they are already doing and enjoying. As we all know the benefits are almost endless; the student can do a review of something they might not have understood in class, contact a friend for assistance.
As an additional bonus there is a teacher guide. I believe this would be a very useful tool for beginning teachers like me.
